News from across the CollegeContensis: http://www.contentmanagement.co.ukhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/university/colleges/socsci/news.aspx?SyndicationType=22015-08-02T19:34:03ZSociology Society Careers Conference 2015Nathan JohnsonThe Sociology Society hosted a careers conference on 04 February 2015. This event provided current students with the opportunity to meet alumni from a variety of careers including HR, PR/Marketing, Consultancy, Social Work, Law (in particular a postgraduate qualification) and Education.2015-04-02T10:58:00Z2015-05-01T15:35:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/teaching/student-profiles/undergraduate/2014-15/sociology-society-careers-conference.aspxPrize Winning and Published Undergraduate and MA student in POLSISNathan JohnsonOne former undergraduate and MA student in POLSIS has not just won prizes, he has also published in a peer review journal before beginning his PhD.2015-03-13T13:49:00Z2015-03-20T14:54:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/news/2015/03/prize-winning-published-student.aspxIDD Guest seminar podcast: Corporate influence on institutional development in an emerging economy: The case of ChinaNathan JohnsonSpeaker: Professor John Child, Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham. This seminar examines the role of large corporations in shaping institutional development, with particular reference to China. Although institutions are potentially powerful actors in the Chinese business environment, reflecting considerable control by government and Party, there has been scope for non-Chinese corporations to influence the development of their regulations and policies.2015-02-27T12:20:00Z2015-02-27T12:18:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/news/2015/02/corporate-influence-on-institutional-development-in-an-emerging-economy-china.aspxInternational Development Forum, Autumn 2014Nathan JohnsonThe International Development Forum is an initiative funded by the University of Birmingham Educational Enhancement Fund to provide an introduction to international development to students from across the University, at any level of study.2014-10-14T14:39:00Z2014-10-14T14:27:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/events/2014/international-development-forum/index.aspxIDD Guest Seminar Series 2014-15Nathan JohnsonThe International Development Department hosts a number of seminars throughout the autumn term which focuses on a number of different topics. The seminars are open to everyone. Listen to the latest podcasts from our recent events.2014-09-26T14:23:00Z2014-09-26T14:07:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/events/guest-seminar-series/index.aspxCreating Change, Expanding Opportunity - IDD Annual Report 2013-14Nathan JohnsonWelcome to a special anniversary Annual Report. Browse an overview of IDD's recent research, teaching, consultancy and publications.2014-08-21T15:14:00Z2014-08-21T15:05:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/college-social-sciences/government-society/idd/annual-report/2013-14.pdfIDD 50 faces #12 - Professor Paul Jackson (1993-)Nathan JohnsonIDD, or DAG as it was then, was a very different place when I joined in 1993. Many of the members of the department had been there for a long time and I was part of a drive to bring some youth in. I came in as a 'Teaching assistant' on a contract that funded a PhD and gave me a minimum number of teaching hours.2014-07-30T09:56:00Z2014-07-30T09:43:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/paul-jackson.aspxAnnual CREES Conference Demonstrates the Strength of CREES ExpertiseNathan JohnsonStaff, students and alumni of CREES plus some specially invited guests gathered at Cumberland Lodge in Windsor Great Park for the annual conference of the Centre for Russian and East European Studies (CREES) in June 2014.2014-06-18T12:06:00Z2014-10-14T16:14:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/news/2014/06/annual-conference.aspxIDD 50 faces #10 - Professor Ken Davey, OBE (1969-2000)Nathan JohnsonI never dreamt that I would be involved in major reforms in countries as diverse as Indonesia, Slovakia and Ukraine. My time at Birmingham has been rich in opportunity and experience and rich in the friendship of likeminded colleagues both here and abroad.2014-05-12T16:15:00Z2014-05-12T16:01:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/ken-davey.aspxIDD 50 faces #11 - Dr Rosamund Thomas (1970-71)Nathan JohnsonPerhaps it was unusual but nevertheless at Birmingham University, in my time, I cross-read between several disciplines. At INLOGOV, my Master's degree (1970-71) permitted me to study not only UK central and local government, but also administration in developing countries. In addition, I read aspects of social policy and social administration in another department.2014-05-12T16:15:00Z2014-05-12T16:04:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/rosamund-thomas.aspxIDD Guest Seminar Series 2013-14Nathan JohnsonThe International Development Department hosts a number of seminars throughout the autumn term which focuses on a number of different topics. The seminars are open to everyone. Listen to the latest podcasts from our recent events.2014-04-29T11:26:00Z2014-04-29T11:27:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/events/guest-seminar-series/2013-14/index.aspx2nd Public Service Academy Speed Networking Employability EventNathan JohnsonThe Schools of Government and Society and Social Policy, in conjunction with the Public Service Academy (PSA) and the College of Social Science Careers Network, held its second employability event on 26 February 2014.2014-04-28T16:54:00Z2014-04-29T10:46:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/social-policy/departments/social-policy-social-work/news-and-events/2014/04/psa-speed-networking-employability-event.aspxIDD 50 faces #09 - Ashok Kumar Jain (1990)Nathan JohnsonMy time at the IDD (1990) had been most enriching. I especially enjoyed learning how to organize thoughts, lateral thinking, information, time and resource management, converting ideas and academics into practice and gender sensitive development with the people especially the poor.2014-04-15T16:10:00Z2014-05-21T07:41:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/ashok-kumar-jain.aspxIDD 50 faces #07 - Lenni MontielNathan JohnsonStudying and living at the University of Birmingham has been for me one of the more rewarding experiences in my life. I got a PhD in Public Policy that allowed me to move forward in my career in international development. I was privileged to joint the Department when it was still the Development Administration Group (DAG) and was able to see and experience its day to day transformation into the International Development Department (IDD)2014-04-10T12:19:00Z2014-04-10T11:55:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/lenni-montiel.aspxIDD 50 faces #08 - Matthew CraigNathan JohnsonI joined IDD in 2009 to complete an MSc in 'International Development, Conflict & Security' under the guidance of Paul Jackson, Danielle Beswick and Heather Marquette. Prior to the MSc, and on the advise of Paul Jackson, I had taken up a 12 month post with a Liberian NGO, in a Project Development role, with a focus on rehabilitating and repatriating Liberian child soldiers from the Buduburum Refugee Camp in Ghana.2014-04-10T12:19:00Z2014-04-10T11:49:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/matt-craig.aspxIDD 50 faces #06 - David Cobley (2006-)Nathan JohnsonI joined IDD in 2006 as a part-time Masters students on the Poverty Reduction & Development Management programme. The two years passed by so quickly that I was disappointed when it all came to an end. Since then, however, I have managed to avoid leaving the Department by adopting various guises, including Teaching Assistant, PhD student, Visiting Lecturer and now Teaching Fellow.2014-04-09T14:47:00Z2014-04-10T11:50:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/david-cobley.aspxIDD 50 faces #05 - Hussein A. SaladNathan JohnsonWhen I first joined the University of Birmingham I came from field work in the humanitarian sector and not so much from an academic background, therefore learning, books, doing assignments and participating in actual academic work scared me a lot.2014-04-09T08:47:00Z2014-04-09T14:47:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/hussein-ali.aspxIDD 50 faces #04 - Ahmed Moghazy Ibrahim (2009-10)Nathan JohnsonI joined IDD in 2009 for a MSc in Governance & Development Management. Simply, I would describe the time that I spent there as the unforgettable best time ever I had. My eyes were opened to new things, I met amazing people from all over the world and I was well-equipped to the market. I got a job only one month after my graduation ceremony.2014-04-08T14:46:00Z2014-04-15T15:24:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/ahmed-moghazy-imrahim.aspxIDD 50 faces #03 - Maureen Achieng (1993-94)Nathan JohnsonI was always passionate about development studies, which is why I ended up at the IDD in 1993. Promptly upon graduation (1994), I was fortunate to land a job as a United Nations Volunteer in Haiti, seconded to the International Organization for Migration, to work on a countrywide community development programme. It was an experience I treasure to this day.2014-04-07T14:45:00Z2014-04-09T14:46:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/maureen-achieng.aspxIDD 50 faces #02 - Professor Mohit BhattacharyaNathan JohnsonProfessor Mohit Bhattacharya who was the first graduate of IDD/INLOGOV. Until recently he was Vice Chancellor of Burdwan University in West Bengal and National Fellow of the Indian Council of Social Science Research. He remains an active writer in public administration and governance.2014-04-04T14:45:00Z2014-04-09T14:45:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/mohit-bhattacharya.aspxIDD 50 faces #01 - Professor Richard BatleyNathan JohnsonI joined IDD in November 1978, at roughly the same time as Nick Devas and Andrew Nickson. This was a time of expansion of IDD (then the Development Administration Group – DAG), backed by a 'development fund' that Ken Davey had won from the University of Birmingham. I am forever grateful that Ken who was then the director of DAG took time out to visit me at the University of Sussex and encouraged me to apply.2014-04-03T14:44:00Z2014-04-09T14:45:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/about/50-anniversary/profiles/richard-batley.aspxAlumni profile: Laurin Weissinger, BA SociologyNathan JohnsonGraduate Student and IT Administrator. Currently, I am staying in Oxford and preparing my PhD research that I hope to start this year. Before coming to Oxford, I worked for a while, both at an executive recruitment consultancy in London and full-time in IT.2014-03-10T10:29:00Z2014-07-17T15:55:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2013-14/weissinger-laurin.aspxSociology - Speed Networking EventNathan JohnsonSociology hosted a careers networking event on the (01 February 2014). This event provided current students with the opportunity to meet students who have recently graduated from Sociology at Birmingham and learn first-hand from them about the kinds of careers they have followed since then.2014-03-05T14:27:00Z2014-04-29T10:58:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/news/2014/03/sociology-careers-event.aspxInternational Collaboration mapNathan JohnsonThe College of Social Sciences is proud of its extensive links with universities and other strategic partners throughout the world. Through our network of global partnerships, we engage in a wide range of activities including staff and student exchange and collaboration in research and teaching.2013-12-19T13:51:00Z2014-03-11T08:55:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/research/collaboration/index.aspxVideo: International students at the University of BirminghamNathan JohnsonInternational students from Indonesia, Brunei, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia at the University of Birmingham talk about their time at Birmingham, including their experiences living in a vibrant and multicultural UK city.2013-12-10T12:14:00Z2014-03-11T08:56:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/international/students/index.aspxStudents vote Birmingham as a top UK University for PoliticsNathan JohnsonPOLSIS has been voted as one of the top departments in the country for studying Politics in the UK. The survey, carried out by Which? University Guide canvassed the views of over 16,000 students across the UK.2013-11-21T17:51:00Z2014-03-13T11:03:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/news/2013/11/which-university-guide.aspxIDD 50th anniversary event: Taking politics seriously: from development to social justice?Nathan Johnson15th November 2013, 18.00 - 19.00. Speaker Professor Sam Hickey, Institute of Development Policy and Management, University of Manchester. A lecture to be given as part of the celebrations for the 50th Anniversary of the International Development Department and on the eve of the 2013 Development Studies Association conference to be hosted at the University of Birmingham2013-11-06T09:45:00Z2013-11-07T09:31:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/events/guest-seminar-series/2013-14/13-11-15-taking-politics-seriously.aspx50 faces of CREES #46 - Mike Berry CREES (1966-)Nathan JohnsonI came to CREES in 1966 to work on the OECD project on "Science Policy in the USSR" with Ron Amann under the leadership of Bob Davies.2013-10-02T12:34:00Z2013-11-12T14:52:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/about/50-anniversary/profiles/mike-berry.aspx50 faces of CREES #45 - Matthew Frear (2005-2013)Nathan JohnsonI arrived at CREES in 2005 with the intention of just taking a career break to indulge my interest in Russia and Eastern Europe for a year on the Masters programme. Little did I know at the time I would end up staying for eight years and developing an expertise on Belarusian politics and society!2013-10-02T12:13:00Z2013-10-02T11:53:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/about/50-anniversary/profiles/matthew-frear.aspxGlobal ranking reinforces Birmingham's position as a world-class universityNathan JohnsonThe University of Birmingham has made an impressive 15 place rise to 62nd in this year's QS World University Rankings, cementing its position in the top 100 universities globally and placing it 10th in the UK.2013-09-10T12:37:00Z2014-03-11T08:59:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/news/latest/2013/09/10-Sept-Global-ranking-reinforces-Birminghams-position-as-a-world-class-university.aspx50 faces of CREES #40 - Peter Kneen (1969-1976)Nathan JohnsonFrom 1969 until 1971 I was a research student at CREES and from 1974 to 1976 a temporary lecturer in Political Science and research fellow on the social history element of the Soviet industrialisation project. In between I spent two periods in the Soviet Union as a British Council exchange student at the universities of Tbilisi and Moscow.2013-08-23T12:25:00Z2013-08-23T12:07:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/about/50-anniversary/profiles/peter-kneen.aspx50 faces of CREES #35 - Dennis BiggsNathan Johnson"My memories of my studies at Birmingham University have somewhat faded but I recall spending 3 happy and productive years from 1961 to 1964 in the Department of Russian Studies of the Faculty of Commerce.2013-07-31T14:44:00Z2013-08-01T11:00:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/about/50-anniversary/profiles/dennis-biggs.aspxStudent funding opportunitiesNathan JohnsonStudy with us at Birmingham and you'll have the opportunity to access a range of funding and bursaries to enhance your student experience!2013-07-31T12:26:00Z2014-03-11T09:00:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/funding/student-funding-opportunities.aspxUpgrading Your Existing Postgraduate QualificationNathan JohnsonYou can upgrade your existing postgraduate qualifications with us to study for either a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate or one-off accredited modules.2013-07-26T15:23:00Z2013-07-26T16:31:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/local-government-studies/courses/upgrading-qualification.aspxINLOGOV MSc DissertationsNathan JohnsonRecently we had a week of Postgraduate posts on the INLOGOV blog - five of our MSc students wrote blogs based on their dissertations.2013-07-23T10:25:00Z2013-07-23T10:20:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/category/msc-dissertation/Blog: Reflecting on the doctoral take-overNathan JohnsonOver the last ten days the INLOGOV blog has reflected some of the great talent we currently have within our PhD cohort. INLOGOV has 28 students, a quarter of which are part time and working in public service. We like to think this gives a distinct flavour to our programme. The blog over recent days profiled some of the great work among current students and reflections from previous INLOGOV graduates of our doctoral programme.2013-07-19T14:58:00Z2013-07-19T14:49:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/19/doctoral-take-over/Blog: Finding an academic homeNathan JohnsonMark Roberts is a Research Fellow in the Department of Politics and Public Policy at De Montfort University, Leicester. His research interests include citizen participation, neighbourhood working, new institutional theory, interpretive analysis and the influence of religion and race in urban politics. Before completing his PhD at INLOGOV, Dr Roberts worked in local authority social work for twenty nine years, with his last post being Deputy Director of Social Services in Sandwell MBC in the West Midlands.2013-07-19T09:57:00Z2013-07-19T14:54:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/19/academic-home/Testimonials - CREES Annual ConferenceNathan JohnsonListen to our alumni, honorary and associate staff share their views on the recent 50th anniversary annual conference at the Cumberland Lodge.2013-07-18T16:23:00Z2013-07-18T15:07:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/news/2013/07/testimonials-conference.aspxCREES celebrates its 50th anniversary at the Annual Conference in Windsor Great ParkNathan JohnsonThe Centre for Russian and East European Studies (CREES) is 50 years old this year. To mark the occasion the department held an expanded annual conference at Cumberland Lodge.2013-07-18T14:49:00Z2014-10-14T16:23:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/news/2013/07/50th-anniversary-annual-conference.aspxBlog: Different expectations and different contextsNathan JohnsonDr Thom Oliver is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Oxford Brookes Business School. He completed his PhD, exploring the representative role of councillors on appointed bodies, at INLOGOV in 2011. He currently lives in Bristol and has recently rejoined INLOGOV as an Associate.2013-07-18T14:44:00Z2013-07-19T14:51:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/18/expectations/Blog: HS2: the importance of evidenceNathan JohnsonRebecca O'Neill is a doctoral student looking at the role of evidence within High Speed Two. She has an interest in the conceptualisation of evidence, evidence-based policy making, the claims-making framework and interpretive approaches to research.2013-07-17T09:41:00Z2013-07-19T14:52:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/17/hs2/Blog: Leaping from campus to councilNathan JohnsonMark Ewbank is currently the service lead for Overview & Scrutiny in the City of Westminster. He graduated from his PhD studies at INLOGOV in 2011, with a thesis focused on party group organisation and behaviour within and outside legislatures, especially in relation to the roles of political actors as part of groups/select or scrutiny committees. Mark also taught classical political theory at an undergraduate and postgraduate level at the University of Birmingham.2013-07-17T09:36:00Z2013-07-19T14:53:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/17/campus-to-council/International Collaboration mapNathan JohnsonThe College of Social Sciences is proud of its extensive links with universities and other strategic partners throughout the world. Through our network of global partnerships, we engage in a wide range of activities including staff and student exchange and collaboration in research and teaching.2013-07-15T09:30:00Z2014-03-11T09:05:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/research/collaboration/index.aspxBlog: The impact factorNathan JohnsonKatherine Tonkiss completed her PhD in 2012, and is now a Research Fellow at INLOGOV. Her first book, Migration and Identity in a Post-national World, will be published later this year with Palgrave Macmillan. Her research interests are focused on the changing nature of migration, citizenship and democracy in a globalising world, the local experience of such transformations, and the intersection between normative and empirical research.2013-07-12T09:22:00Z2013-07-12T09:35:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/12/the-impact-factor/Blog: Wherever I lay my highlighter, that's my homeNathan JohnsonTatum Matharu completed her PhD at INLOGOV in 2012. She is a Research Fellow at Birmingham Business School, working on a project (described above) funded by the National Institute for Health Research, partnered with the University's Health Services Management Centre.2013-07-11T17:49:00Z2013-07-12T11:19:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/11/highlighter-home/Blog: It's not easy (but not too hard) to be a PhD studentNathan JohnsonPobsook Chamchong is a Thai Government Scholarship PhD student at INLOGOV. Before coming to Birmingham, she previously worked as a researcher for the Thailand Political Development Councils and for the Thailand Reform Committee.2013-07-10T17:54:00Z2013-07-12T08:55:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/07/10/not-easy-not-too-hard/Alumni: Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, Public Administration and Development by distance learning MSc (2013)Nathan JohnsonSamuel Ofosu Ampofo describes his experience of studying an MSc Public Administration and Development by distance learning at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during his recent graduation.2013-07-10T15:53:00Z2014-07-17T15:51:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/samuel-ofosu-ampofo.aspxAlumni: Sarah Jeffries, Public Management MScNathan JohnsonSarah Jeffries describes her experience of studying a MSc in Public Management at the Institute of Local Government Studies, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2013-07-10T15:38:00Z2014-07-17T15:51:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/local-government-studies/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/jeffries-sarah.aspx50 faces of CREES #34 - Ann HelgesonNathan JohnsonI came to CREES in 1979, quite unexpectedly, when Chris Davis (another American) was going on leave for some reason or other and there was a need for someone to teach the Social Work students in Soviet social policy.2013-07-01T17:19:00Z2013-07-05T16:48:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/about/50-anniversary/profiles/ann-helegeson.aspxBlog: Towards a model of sector-led improvement in UK local governmentNathan JohnsonThis post is based on Iain Taylor-Allen's MSc dissertation, which he completed at INLOGOV earlier this year. Iain Taylor-Allen is an Adult Social Care Performance Manager. He has a keen interest in public management – specifically focusing on leadership, organisational culture and transformation; sector-led approaches to improvement; and the use of qualitative and quantitative measures to drive service / contract / organisational performance.2013-06-28T10:00:00Z2013-07-23T10:12:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/06/28/sector-led-improvement-2/Blog: How do undergraduates construct their view of a public service professional?Nathan JohnsonThis post is based on Sarah Jeffries' MSc dissertation, which she completed at INLOGOV earlier this year. Sarah Jeffries has just completed a part-time MSc in Public Management with INLOGOV. She works for the Careers Network at the University of Birmingham, managing the University's optional employability programme: the Personal Skills Award. Sarah also chairs the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services' Skills Award Task Group.2013-06-27T09:57:00Z2013-07-23T10:14:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/06/27/public-service-professional/Blog: Harnessing the resources of social enterprises for local authority savingsNathan JohnsonThis post is based on Sam Tappenden's MSc dissertation, which he completed at INLOGOV earlier this year. Sam Tappenden started his career in local government in 2010 through Hertfordshire County Council's Graduate Training scheme. As part of the training scheme, Sam read for an MSc in Public Management at INLOGOV. Sam is now seconded to Hertfordshire Community Meals as a Business Development Manager where his role is focussed on improving the efficiency of the current business model and assessing options for business diversification.2013-06-26T09:53:00Z2013-07-23T10:14:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/06/26/social-enterprise/Blog: Street-level bureaucrats and the UK's Better Regulation agenda: are the two compatible?Nathan JohnsonThis post is based on Harry Barton's MSc dissertation, which he completed at INLOGOV earlier this year. Harry Barton has worked in local government and for different regulatory bodies. His research interests include the construction of public policy, participative democracy, project, programme and change management. The biggest motivator in choosing this topic for his research project was to understand more about how the public sector should go about developing the skills and personnel it needs to be effective in the future.2013-06-25T09:50:00Z2013-07-23T10:13:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/06/25/street-level-bureaucrats-regulation/Blog: Citizen participation through the looking glassNathan JohnsonThis blog post is based on Catherine Jackson-Read's MSc dissertation, which she completed at INLOGOV earlier this year. Cathy Jackson-Read is an experienced facilitator and organisational development consultant who has worked at strategic and operational levels with a variety of statutory service providers, regional and sub-regional agencies and voluntary and community organisations, to enable cross sector liaison and collaborative working. Cathy currently works as a senior manager with Onside Independent Advocacy, a Worcester based charity providing services and support to vulnerable and disadvantaged adults.2013-06-24T09:47:00Z2013-07-23T10:11:00Zhttp://inlogov.wordpress.com/2013/06/24/citizen-participation-through-the-looking-glass/Alumni: Michael Uzoigwe, MSc and PhD in International DevelopmentNathan JohnsonThe exposure was great and the UK environment provided just the right amount of challenges. The facilities were outstanding, especially the library, and with students from almost every part of the world, IDD provided the best possible platform for my course of study.2013-06-21T18:17:00Z2013-06-21T18:11:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/uzoigwe-michael.aspxAlumni: Oluwapelumi Okuyemi, MSc International Development (Conflict, Security and Development)Nathan JohnsonHaving done my research on the course I wanted to study for my post-graduate degree, I was immediately drawn to the University of Birmingham whose international development department is one of the best practise centres for politics and international development in the United Kingdom. I also practically fell in love with the module structure as it fitted in perfectly with how I had envisioned the programme.2013-06-21T18:17:00Z2013-06-21T18:15:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/okuyemi-oluwapelumi.aspx#AskAnAlum - What's it like to study at Birmingham?Nathan JohnsonTo give you an idea of what it's like to study in the Department of Political Science and International Studies we are running two live twitter chats for offer holders over the next two weeks. These chats will give you the opportunity to ask three of our most recent graduates about their experiences in the department and university life in general.2013-04-11T16:01:00Z2013-04-11T15:48:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/university/colleges/socsci/news.aspx?SyndicationType=2Profile: Riona Mulherin, BA International relations and Political Science (2012)Nathan JohnsonStudying International Relations with Political Science gives a brilliant insight into how the world works; it shows you how politics, history, geography, economics, ethics and law are all interconnected at an international level, and the course allows you to look in close detail at all of these topics. I personally really enjoyed modules relating to economics and international development, and the great thing about this course is that you are encouraged to follow these interests.2013-04-09T17:06:00Z2013-04-09T16:54:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/mulherin-riona.aspxProfile: Sean Finch, BA International relations and Political Science (2012)Nathan JohnsonI would advise those looking to study in POLSIS to make the most of the broadness of the subject as it gives you so many options and avenues to pursue your interests. Make the most of the specialisms of staff members and don't be apprehensive about asking them for help. The department is really supportive and can help you achieve your degree goal.2013-04-09T17:06:00Z2013-04-09T16:56:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/finch-sean.aspxProfile: Nancy Gray, BA Political Science (2012)Nathan JohnsonTo those looking to study Political Science, I would definitely recommend attending all the different career events held by both the department and the Politics Society; they are worth heading along to. Also, read the emails circulated, it is how I found this internship!2013-04-09T17:06:00Z2013-04-09T16:59:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/gray-nancy.aspxPyone Kyaw, MSc International Development (2012)Nathan JohnsonPyone Kyaw describes her experience of studying an MSc in Development Management at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2013-03-21T14:30:00Z2014-07-17T16:00:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/kyaw-pyone.aspxMaria Anna Belka, MSc Development Management (Public Economic Management and Finance) (2012)Nathan JohnsonMaria Anna Belka describes her experience of studying an MSc in Development Management at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2013-03-21T14:30:00Z2014-07-17T16:00:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/maria-anna-belka.aspxChris Woods, MSc Development Management (2012)Nathan JohnsonChris Woods describes her experience of studying an MSc in Development Management at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2013-03-21T14:30:00Z2014-07-17T16:00:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/woods-chris.aspxLeisl Algeo, MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development by distance learning (2012)Nathan JohnsonLeisl Algeo describes her experience of studying an MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development by distance learning at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2013-03-21T12:10:00Z2014-07-17T16:33:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/algeo-leisl.aspxAnna Townsend, MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development by distance learning (2012)Nathan JohnsonAnna Townsend describes her experience of studying an MSc Poverty, Inequality and Development by distance learning at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2013-03-21T12:10:00Z2014-07-17T15:59:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/townsend-anna.aspxAnthony Gething, MSc Public Administration and Development by distance learning (2012)Nathan JohnsonAnthony Gething describes his experience of studying an MSc Public Administration and Development by distance learning at the International Development Department, University of Birmingham during his recent graduation.2013-03-21T12:10:00Z2014-07-17T15:59:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/gething-anthony.aspxAlumni video profile: Christophe Laarman, MSc Contemporary Russian and East European Studies (2011)Nathan JohnsonChristophe Laarman describes his experience of studying an MSc in Contemporary Russian and East European Studies at the Centre for Russian and East European Studies, University of Birmingham during his recent graduation.2012-08-28T12:41:00Z2014-07-17T16:03:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/russian-east-european-studies/alumni/profiles/christophe-laarman.aspxAlumni video profile: Katherine Tonkiss, PhD Local Government Studies (2012)Nathan JohnsonKatherine Tonkiss describes her experience of studying a PhD in the Institute of Local Government Studies during her recent graduation.2012-08-09T13:14:00Z2014-07-17T16:07:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/local-government-studies/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/tonkiss-katherine.aspxAlumni video profile: Alyson Nicholds, PhD Local Government Studies (2012)Nathan JohnsonAlyson Nicholds describes her experience of studying a PhD in the Institute of Local Government Studies during her recent graduation.2012-08-09T13:13:00Z2014-07-17T16:04:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/local-government-studies/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/nicholds-alyson.aspxAlumni video profile: Claire Kueh, MSc Public Management (2012)Nathan JohnsonClaire Kueh describes her experience of studying a MSc in Public Management at the Institute of Local Government Studies, University of Birmingham during her recent graduation.2012-08-09T12:58:00Z2014-07-17T16:05:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/local-government-studies/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2012-13/kueh-claire.aspxPOLSIS alumni newsletter - Summer 2012Nathan JohnsonWelcome to the third annual edition of the POLSIS Alumni Newsletter. Like every year, we have a lot of exciting developments in the department. We have new colleagues, new students, new research avenues, interesting guest speakers and a variety of activities to enhance teaching, learning, and the experience of our students.2012-07-04T10:05:00Z2012-07-04T09:56:00Zhttp://www.download.bham.ac.uk/govsoc/polsis/alumni-newsletter-summer2012/1.htmlAlumni profile: Rosie Jennings, BA Sociology (2010)Nathan JohnsonI found that the course gave you a lot of freedom to tailor your own learning. There were a lot of module options to choose from as well as the core subjects in sociological theory. As a result the knowledge I got from the course was balanced and of interest to me personally.2012-05-01T11:24:00Z2012-05-01T11:11:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/jennings-rosie.aspxAlumni profile: Sundeep Johal, BA Sociology (2010)Nathan JohnsonWhat made this programme stand out for me was the dedication of the lecturers which helped further strengthened my passion for the subject. The knowledge and support I gained from lecturers was priceless and provided me with an ideal foundation for my chosen career: social work. This course is ideal for anyone with the desire to question the taken-for-granted aspects of society and will be sure to challenge and stimulate the mind.2012-04-27T11:06:00Z2012-05-01T11:07:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/johal-sundeep.aspxAlumni profile: Chris Richardson Wright, BA International Relations (2011)Nathan JohnsonThe best thing for me was the opportunities that I got in my extra-curricular activities. I made full use of the opportunities available in the students union and I really enjoyed all of the work I did in charity fundraising, volunteering and events management as well.2012-03-21T13:43:00Z2014-07-17T14:44:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2011-12/richardson-wright-chris.aspxAlumni video profile: Kate Barry, BA Law with Politics (2001)Nathan JohnsonJust remember how much you've been given and how much you know and remember how difficult it was at the beginning for you to understand all those weird concepts and the theories and political views and ideas and how you've managed to translate them and how that will help you in being a voice and an advocate for other people because it's invaluable having people who can speak for other people because not everyone can do that.2012-03-21T13:43:00Z2014-07-17T14:45:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2011-12/barry-kate.aspxAlumni profile: Derek Lowe, BA Political Science (1976) and MA Social Science (1980)Nathan JohnsonGet the most out of it when you're here and get the most out of it in terms of your course, make sure you engage with the teaching staff and get the most out of your tutors and your friends, enjoy the social side of things but really focus on where you want your degree to lead to...2012-03-21T13:43:00Z2014-07-17T14:44:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2011-12/lowe-derek.aspxAlumni profile: Adrian Bradley, BA Political Science (2003)Nathan JohnsonMy main piece of advice is make the most of your time. What you get out of being at university, the degree is the hygiene factor that will make sure your application is read but no more than that. What you get out of the university is all these experiences that you can have while you're here and the CV you can build...2012-03-21T13:43:00Z2014-07-17T14:43:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2011-12/bradley-adrian.aspxKatie Ramsay, BA Sociology (2007)Nathan Johnsonam still fascinated by sociology and my love for travel has been greatly enhanced by my sociological background. I spent one year driving through Africa and often found myself dissecting my experiences and surroundings in a sociological way.2012-03-01T00:00:00Z2012-03-05T14:09:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/ramsay-katie.aspxAlumni profile: Jemma George, BA Sociology (2008)Nathan JohnsonBirmingham is a fantastic and vibrant city. The University campus is just two stops away from the city centre so it's brilliant if you want to explore the area. The University Main Library hosts most of the Social Sciences material and is an excellent resource for students. My fondest memories were being part of the Social Sciences Society and getting to organise events and nights out for SSS members.2012-02-15T11:53:00Z2012-02-15T11:49:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2011-12/george-jemma.aspxAlumni profile: Domonic Morris, MA International Political Economy of DevelopmentNathan JohnsonI work as a consultant for a consultancy in Bristol. We work with the British Government across DIFID and the foreign office and the Ministry of Defence in the Security and Justice arena and the stabilisation agenda at the moment.2012-01-23T12:35:00Z2014-07-17T14:24:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2011-12/morris-dominic.aspxAlumni video profile: Virginie Lacroix, MSc International Development (Governance and Statebuilding)Nathan JohnsonI choose to study at IDD mainly because they have Governance and State-building specialisation. They teach a lot about conflict and post-conflict it's one of the best schools for international development in the UK and it's very good for governance and civil servant management and that's what I was looking for so that's why I came here.2012-01-23T12:28:00Z2014-07-17T14:29:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2011-12/lacroix-virginie.aspxAlumni video profile: Zainab Usman, MSc International Development (International Political Economy and Development)Nathan JohnsonThere were so many things I had learnt in my undergraduate degree but then as I was doing my Masters doing my research. It's like my brain was expanded I got to learn so much about so many different things, I met a lot of incredible people from all over the world, it was amazing. The people, the staff, my fellow students the close nit environment, all those counted.2012-01-23T12:28:00Z2014-07-17T14:26:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/alumni/profiles/postgraduate/2011-12/usman-zainab.aspxAlumni profile: Dee Reid, BA Combined Honours in English and Sociology (1973)Nathan JohnsonAs I trained as an English teacher and initially taught English and Drama, the Sociology part of my degree formed less of a part of my initial working role but it widened my horizons to different ways of seeing and thinking.2012-01-16T14:12:00Z2012-01-16T14:03:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/reid-dee.aspxAlumni profile: Dalvinder Singh, BA Sociology (2006)Nathan JohnsonDo the reading each week, study hard in your last two years. Try to get some work experience or an internship whilst at Uni, as this could be invaluable experience or can lead to a job offer once you've graduated.2012-01-16T14:12:00Z2012-01-16T14:06:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/alumni/profiles/undergraduate/2012-13/singh-dalvinder.aspxAlumni ambassadorsNathan JohnsonThe University of Birmingham is proud to have a network of Alumni Ambassadors that fulfil an invaluable role by offering support, practical advice and advocacy across the globe. This network has been developed to enable prospective and current students to connect directly with individuals who have fully experienced what the University, and city, of Birmingham has to offer. Please do take the opportunity to email our ambassadors with your questions regarding studying at the University, living in Birmingham / UK, their individual career pathways, living and working in their country of residence or origin etc.2011-09-07T08:11:00Z2014-03-11T09:15:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/alumni/ambassadors-test/index.aspxHonourable Justice Robert Kisanga of Tanzania awarded honorary doctorate by the University of BirminghamNathan JohnsonIn recognition of a long and distinguished career in the judiciary in Tanzania following his initial law degree at the University of Birmingham in the 1960s, Justice Robert Kisanga has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University.2011-07-09T08:02:00Z2014-03-11T10:24:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/news/2010/07/robert-kisanga-honorary-doctorate.aspxEvent: Leadership in Challenging TimesNathan JohnsonDr Peter Carter OBE, General Secretary and Chief Executive of the Royal College of Nursing|, the world's largest professional union of nurses and health care support workers will deliver a talk on 'Leadership in Challenging Times'. As part of ADEPT Careers week for Postgraduate Researchers 20 - 24 June. Peter will share insights and experience which will interest current Postgraduate Researchers who are aspiring to develop their leadership potential.2011-06-23T12:00:00Z2014-03-11T09:16:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/events/items/BBS/leadership.aspxInformal Alumni Gathering in DelhiNathan JohnsonOn Tuesday 01 February, the University of Birmingham held an informal reception for alumni living or working in Delhi, India, to meet and network with a group of current University staff and students visiting the city. The visit was part of an international collaboration between the Universities of Birmingham, Delhi and Melbourne, Australia, under the Universitas 21 framework.2011-02-01T09:03:00Z2014-03-11T09:17:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/events/reportsandgalleries2011/informalalumnigatheringindelhi-1february2011.aspxEvent: Alumni Gathering in DelhiNathan JohnsonStaff from the College of Social Sciences will be accompanying eight Masters students from the University of Birmingham to India to participate within an intensive Masters level module entitled 'Security in a globalised world; New and emerging challenges', delivered collaboratively between the Universities of Birmingham, Delhi and Melbourne.2011-01-31T15:08:00Z2014-03-11T09:18:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/events/EventsArchive/delhi.aspxProfessor Helen Sullivan hosts 'Table for Ten' as part of the University's Policy Commission on the future of local public servicesNathan JohnsonOn Tuesday 30 November Professor Helen Sullivan hosted a dinner for a group of University of Birmingham students, alumni and staff on theme of 'Where now for the Public Sector and the aspiring Public Service Professional?'.2010-11-30T14:19:00Z2014-03-11T11:07:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/local-government-studies/news/2010/11/alumni-table-ten.aspxPOLSIS alumni set up charity in IndiaNathan JohnsonProcedo Foundation was founded in 2009 by Nick Jackson, Richard Adams and Alessandro Capozzi; three friends studying International Relations at the University of Birmingham, who share an enthusiastic interest in supporting development and cultural understanding.2010-11-18T14:05:00Z2011-10-31T11:48:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/news/2010/11/alumni-set-up-charity-india.aspxRecent graduate has dissertation published in JournalNathan JohnsonCarolyn Lamontagne, a recent graduate of the International Development Department, where she received her Master's degree in International Development. has had her dissertation published in Green Money Journal (Fall 2010 issue. volume 19, Issue 1, number 77).2010-09-23T18:04:00Z2014-03-11T10:25:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/international-development/news/2010/09/graduate-dissertation-published.aspxPOLSIS Alumni event - 'Dinner with a Dozen'Nathan JohnsonPolsis Alumni, staff and current students met for dinner in February at the University to discuss the transition from student life to work, as part of an initiative from the Alumni Office to draw on the experience of Birmingham Alumni for the benefit of current students.2010-02-16T17:05:00Z2011-09-02T09:43:00Zhttp://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/government-society/departments/political-science-international-studies/news/2010/02/alumni-dinner-dozen.aspx